KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 10 — World number one men’s singles shuttler Shi Yu Qi of China moved a step closer to defending his Malaysia Open title after advancing to the final of the 2026 edition at Axiata Arena, Bukit Jalil, here today.

The top seed denied Denmark’s third seed and 2024 champion Anders Antonsen a place in the final, needing just 46 minutes to secure a 21-13, 21-14 straight-sets victory in their semi-final of the season opening tournament.